About the Citizens Government Academy

Join the Mayor, Manager, and staff for a learning and networking opportunity. The Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCGov) is offering a weekly class for residents to learn about local government through first-hand exposure to the wide range of government functions, services, activities, and issues. 

The Citizens Government Academy is designed to:

• Give residents an opportunity to learn how to access their government
• familiarize residents with government services, functions and activities of Athens-Clarke County
• Help residents gain a better understanding about how to become involved in local government
• Enhance their ability to communicate effectively with local officials.

The Citizens Government Academy seeks to provide participants with an in-depth overview of a number of local government services, functions, and activities centered around the Mayor and Commission’s six strategic commitments to the residents of Athens-Clarke County:

• Informed and Engaged Community
• Shared Prosperity
• Healthy, Livable, and Sustainable Athens-Clarke County
• Transportation, Mobility, and Connectivity
• Safe and Prepared Community
• Accountable and Responsive Government

Program Details:

• Participants must be Athens-Clarke County residents, age 18+
• Class size is limited to 25 participants on a first come, first serve basis.
• Each class will be conducted by a department representative and will provide both an informational and interactive learning approach.

Participants will gain a better understanding of

• The relationships between residents, the Mayor & Commission, and governmental departments
• The process for deciding why and how government projects are implemented and services are provided
• The ways government projects support Mayor & Commission goals and objectives as well as the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government’s strategic commitments. 
• The budgeting process 
• Roles and functions of public safety departments 
• Environmental stewardship measures
• Additional responsibilities and functions of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government